320 S. Main Street
Olivet, MI 49076

Located on a rolling hilltop, Olivet College is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. This is a private, four-year liberal arts College in Michigan. It has three residence halls, offers wireless Internet, computer labs, a library, and a recreational facility. The school is located in the city of Olivet (pop. 1,700).

Student enrollment is approximately 1,050, with more than 90 percent of the students hailing from Michigan. There are approximately 90 faculty members. The student to faculty ratio is about 18 to 1. There are approximately 25 programs that students can enroll in to earn a baccalaureate degree. Students can also earn their Master of Arts for a teaching degree or enroll in a dual degree program with two universities in Michigan.

The college was founded by Father John J. Shipherd in 1844. The main focus for the institution is to give students an education, regardless of gender, race, or the ability to pay. The college has always been dedicated to educating women and minorities. In 1845, the college didn't get a state charter because of its abolitionist standpoint. Eventually, the charter was granted a few years later and in 1863, the college granted degrees to its first class.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the college developed the "Oxford model," a system that is used in Europe that was centered on seminars and interaction between students and faculty. Now, the educational system is based on The Olivet Plan, which is geared for student learning, involves learning communities, lecture and symposium series, portfolio assessment, senior experience, and service learning.

Olivet College is affiliated with the NCAA Division III and a member of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association. Women's varsity teams include basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, track and field, volleyball, and tennis. Men's varsity sports teams include basketball, baseball, cross country, golf, football, soccer, swimming and diving, track and field, and wrestling.

Quick Facts:

The Global Citizen Honors Program is divided into three academic experiences: honors class, honors option courses, and an honors project.

The Writing Program was developed to help students at all levels become better writers. Tutors work together with students to fine-tune their term papers and presentations.

There are more than 30 student organizations and 11 Greek societies.

Olivet College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

This school profile has been compiled and updated by The CollegeBound Network. The school is not affiliated with The CollegeBound Network and shall not be considered a sponsor of this program.